Generational Legacy

Welcome to the story of Lakeside Bible Camp — a place where faith has flourished, friendships have grown, and lives have been transformed for over six decades. From humble beginnings on the shores of Deer Lake to a thriving camp community, God's hand has been in it all.

Foggy landscape with a grassy area, a small pond, scattered trees, and a path leading toward the water. A wooden railing is partially visible in the foreground.
Scenic lake view surrounded by trees, with a wooden dock extending into the water. A small island with trees is visible, and a peaceful, natural setting is evident.
Two people walking on a path in a park near a lake, surrounded by trees and bushes. One person is wearing a t-shirt and shorts, carrying a book, while the other wears a plaid shirt and shorts. In the background, more people are relaxing near the water.

1959

The Dream Begins

What if We Had a Camp of Our Own?

In 1959, a group of believers from several evangelical churches in the Seattle area had a shared vision — to create a place where young people could hear the gospel, experience Christian community, and have a blast doing it.

That vision became a mission when the property on Deer Lake, near Clinton and Langley on Whidbey Island, was secured.

Group of workers on a roof having a coffee break, with a GMC truck below.
Children gathered outside a wooden camp store in 1960, some wearing swim trunks, with trees in the background.

1960

Our First Campers Arrive

A Camp is Born

By the summer of 1960, Lakeside Bible Camp welcomed its first campers.

With just the basics in place and a whole lot of heart, that first summer laid the foundation for years to come.

Word spread quickly — something special was happening on Whidbey Island.

Camp entrance with buildings and sign, surrounded by trees and lake in the background.
Outdoor pavilion area with picnic tables, surrounded by trees, grass, and shrubs in a park setting. A golf cart is parked nearby, with people walking in the background.
A black and white image of a person paddling a kayak in a calm body of water, with two individuals in a pedal boat in the background.
Woman and child kayaking on a lake
Children playing a game outdoors on a grassy field, with several buildings and trees in the background. The kids appear to be engaged in a casual sports activity, possibly tag or football, on a sunny day.
Group of children playing a game on a grassy field, wooden building in the background, surrounded by trees, American flag visible.
A lake with a forested shoreline and a building in the background, featuring a slide and recreational area for swimming on the right.
Foggy lakeside scene with a dock, boat, and water slide.

Building the Camp,

Growing the Mission

From a Few Cabins to a Full Summer Lineup

Over the decades, Lakeside grew — not just in buildings, but in vision. New cabins were built, programs expanded, and generations of campers returned year after year as staff, cabin leaders, and lifelong friends. Through it all, the camp stayed focused on its core: proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and creating a space where young people could serve and grow.

  • Our Mission

    The Mission of Lakeside Bible Camp, in partnership with its member churches, is to fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ by providing a camp/conference center experience where the gospel of Jesus Christ is proclaimed and believers are given opportunities to serve God and people.

  • Our Vision

    To build a solid foundation for life-changing ministry until the Lord’s return.

  • Our Values

    To preserve the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace as we work together to fulfill the mission of Lakeside Bible Camp. To provide programming that is dynamic and relevant to the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of campers of all ages. To mobilize and equip a growing number of mature Christians for their part in a volunteer team. To shepherd our staff to ensure their spiritual growth, long-term effectiveness, and stability. To construct and maintain a facility that meets the long-term, year-round needs of both campers and workers, while preserving the beauty of the Deer Lake property. To witness to the Island community through a consistent testimony of grace and integrity in all that we do. To be open, as stewards of God's ministry, to His using Lakeside Bible Camp in ways we cannot now plan or imagine.

Today: 180 Campers. 50 Acres. One Mission.

Still Serving, Still Growing.

Now sitting on 50 acres of beautiful Whidbey Island forestland, Lakeside hosts up to 180 campers at a time. From summer youth camps to winter retreats and leadership training, our mission remains the same: to teach God’s word faithfully, build lasting relationships, and raise up servant-hearted leaders.

Group of boys and a man posing outdoors, 1950s
A group of young people lying on grass taking a selfie, with trees and a lighthouse in the background.

Want to be part of the story?

The next chapter starts with YOU.